A small town take on the big, wide world

Day nine on the Camino de Santiago: Azqueta to Torres del Rio

We’ve covered 21 kilometres today. It was easy going, peaceful, empty – the way we like it – through rolling hill country, old olive groves and vineyards.

Early morning, on the road to Torres del Rio

From time to time we met up with other walkers, sharing photos sometimes, Camino stories, and top tips on lasting the distance, but mostly simply appreciating the peace and quiet together.

The hectic atmosphere of a couple of days ago seems to have dissapated. I’m not sure why. Perhaps we are out of step with the main stages of the Camino, or perhaps those who only ever intended to walk part of the way have returned home. Maybe the rest of us are more fatigued, and we’re learning to conserve our energy.

My shoes, about three months from now.

It doesn’t really matter why – John and I both appreciate the change.

The approach to Sansol, only a couple of kilometres from our destination

Soon we’ll leave the Navarre behind – by Sunday we’ll be in the Rioja region, famous for its red wines.

Already, the landscape is changing – the mountains and the valleys have changed to rolling hills and big skies, skies that remind us of home.

View from the plaza in Torres del Rio

For now, we’re sitting in the plaza of Torres del Rio, enjoying the sun. Tomorrow, we’re hoping to have a half rest day, walking only to the next village.